The Ruh (Arabic: روح), often translated as “soul” or “spirit,” is a central concept in Islam, representing the divine essence that gives life to all living beings. The Ruh is viewed as a creation of Allah, breathed into humans to animate them and connect them to their Creator. It is considered the purest aspect of human existence, distinct from the physical body, and is the source of consciousness, morality, and spirituality.
The Ruh is mentioned in the Quran as a profound mystery, with its true nature known only to Allah:
- “And they ask you about the soul. Say, ‘The soul is of the affair of my Lord, and mankind has not been given of knowledge except a little.’” (Quran 17:85)
The Creation of Ruh in Humans
The Quran describes the creation of humans as a combination of physical matter and the divine spirit. Allah fashioned the human body from clay and then breathed into it from His Ruh:
- “And when I have proportioned him and breathed into him of My [created] soul, then fall down to him in prostration.” (Quran 38:72)
This act symbolizes the unique status of humans among Allah’s creations, granting them spiritual awareness, moral responsibility, and a connection to the divine.
The Role of Ruh in Islamic Belief
The Ruh plays a vital role in a person’s spiritual and moral life. It is the source of:
- Life and Vitality
- The Ruh is what animates the body, and its departure marks the end of physical life.
- Moral Responsibility
- The Ruh is the essence that allows humans to distinguish between right and wrong, guiding them toward fulfilling their purpose as servants of Allah.
- Connection to Allah
- The Ruh links humans to their Creator, enabling acts of worship, reflection, and a yearning for spiritual growth.
- Eternal Nature
- While the body is temporary and decays after death, the Ruh is eternal and continues its journey beyond this world.
The Ruh and the Afterlife
In Islamic belief, the Ruh separates from the body at the time of death and enters the realm of the unseen (Barzakh). It awaits the Day of Judgment, when it will be reunited with the body to face accountability for its deeds:
- “Every soul will taste death. Then to Us will you be returned.” (Quran 29:57)
The state of the Ruh in the Hereafter depends on the individual’s actions in this life. A purified Ruh finds eternal peace and reward in Paradise, while a corrupted one faces consequences.
The Mystery of the Ruh
The Ruh is described as a divine secret, with its full nature beyond human comprehension. Islamic scholars emphasize that while we understand some aspects of the Ruh through the Quran, its essence remains within the knowledge of Allah.
The Relationship Between the Ruh and the Nafs
The Ruh and the Nafs (self or soul) are distinct but interconnected concepts in Islam:
- The Ruh is the divine spirit breathed into humans by Allah, representing purity and the potential for higher spiritual awareness.
- The Nafs is the self that includes desires, emotions, and personal identity. It undergoes struggles between base desires and higher aspirations. The journey of life involves the Ruh guiding the Nafs toward purification and alignment with divine will.
Lessons from the Concept of Ruh
- The Divine Origin of Life
- The Ruh reminds believers of their divine origin and the purpose of life as a trust from Allah.
- The Temporary Nature of the World
- While the body is bound to the physical world, the Ruh transcends it, emphasizing the importance of spiritual growth over material pursuits.
- Accountability and Purpose
- The Ruh, as the essence of human life, underscores moral responsibility and the ultimate return to Allah for judgment.
- The Value of Spiritual Purity
- Focusing on acts of worship, remembrance of Allah (Dhikr), and good deeds purifies the Ruh, strengthening its connection to the Creator.
Conclusion
In Islam, the Ruh represents the divine gift of life and spirituality, connecting humans to Allah and imbuing them with consciousness and moral responsibility. It is the essence of human existence, reminding believers of their higher purpose and the eternal nature of the soul. By nurturing and purifying the Ruh through faith, worship, and righteous deeds, Muslims strive to fulfill their divine purpose and attain closeness to Allah in both this life and the Hereafter. The Ruh serves as a profound reminder of the Creator’s wisdom, mercy, and the sacred trust placed within every human being.
Written by AI. A more correct, God given, explanation can be found here.